The microstructure, mechanical properties and tribological behaviors of YB2C2 reinforced Cu matrix composites prepared by spark plasma sintering

The first ternary layered ceramic reinforced copper matrix composites, Cu-xYB(2)C(2) (x = 0, 5, 10, 20 vol%) composites without interfacial reaction were successfully fabricated by spark plasma sintering at 950 degrees C. Microstructures, phase compositions, mechanical properties and tribological behaviors of Cu-YB2C2 composites were investigated. The results indicated that Cu-YB2C2 composites had good chemical compatibility. Compared with pure copper, the hardness, tensile strength and wear resistance of Cu-YB2C2 composites were all significantly improved. Cu-10 vol% YB2C2 composites exhibited the highest tensile strength and the best tribological performance, with an ultimate tensile strength of 203 +/- 2 MPa and a wear rate of (3.1 +/- 0.4) x 10(-8) mm(3)/mm. The wear mechanism changed from adhesive wear to a combination of adhesive wear and abrasive wear with the addition of YB2C2, while surface oxidation and fatigue were also present in all tribosystems. Cu-YB2C2 composites have application prospects in electrical contacts and aerospace fields.